A Michelin-starred chef could be facing a year in jail after he allegedly used ants as garnish in a dessert dish. It is believed that the restaurant imported approximately 49,000 ants from the United States and Thailand over four years for use in several dishes.
The BBC reported that diners posted food reviews with images of the food, showing ants sprinkled on dishes in the South Korean restaurant. This prompted an investigation and subsequent arrest.
There are also calls for the restaurant to be fined.
According to the report, the restaurant owner admitted to serving ants, explaining that they were used as toppings for sorbets and that diners could opt for ant-free toppings.
The chef argued that ants are consumed in other parts of the world including Australia, the United Kingdom and Denmark.
The restaurant, which has earned two coveted Michelin stars, has not been named in any reports.
